As seen on Vimeo: reviews of iPhone films by Fearnley, Cavalli, Middle8Media and Capote

Here’s another roundup of videos submitted to the Smart Movie Making Vimeo Group, from behind the scenes of a Nokia short to the wilds of Arizona, the suburbs and piano sketches from Spain — all are touched with smartphone magic!

Behind the Scenes on Daniel by Aurora Fearnley

Daniel was a runner-up in the Nokia N8 Short Film competition and premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival as part of the prestigious Nokia & Vimeo shorts weekender.

The film is an eight-minute period drama and supernatural tale about a young man who can see into the future as the second world war rages. With a great cast, script and captivating effects, Daniel was unlucky not to win top prize.

I’d like to thank Aurora for sending this behind the scenes footage as it gives a glimpse of a professional cast and crew at work the effort that goes into making a film, even on a small budget. It is also good to see the Nokia N8 in action.

Interstate 15: Arizona: 29.08.2010 by Mario Cavalli

Like Mario’s other submissions this films is beautifully shot, as if he is hanging out of the sunroof, then the footage is slowed down in the editing and mixed with an ethereal soundtrack, making a scenic drive through the mountains under a gorgeous blue sky pure escapism.

In production notes for a short experimental film, Mario says: “Not that long ago, I used to wonder at how the digital revolution had shrunk the paraphernalia of movie making into something that would fit comfortably inside a backpack. Now, apparently, it can fit comfortably within the palm of a hand. And it makes phone calls too!”

And therein lies the essence of smart moviemaking.

The Ring Falcon II by Middle8Media

This film has a Super 8 feel about it and indeed conjures up a time of innocence with children dressing up as superheroes and coming to the rescue of fellow citizens. The young cast is a treat and the production values by Middle8Media lift it above the usual backyard type of film. Epically awesome! guys.

elo y el piano by Waldo Capote

Spanish; atmospheric; filmed in black and white; the end of a relationship and a sad pianist consoling herself by playing. Succinct and poetic — a mini-masterpiece and Capote is one to watch.

I shall be reviewing more films over the following days, if you would like to join the group you can do so here.